At ADP Precision Engineering, continuous improvement is at the core of everything we do. That’s why we’re excited to announce that, just last month, we added a brand-new capability to our workshop with the purchase of a Makino U3i EDM wire machine.
This investment marks a significant step forward for ADP, allowing us to bring a process we previously sub-contracted in-house. Not only does this strengthen our internal capabilities, but it also delivers real benefits for our customers in terms of quality, lead times, and flexibility.
What is EDM Wire Machining?
EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) wire cutting is a highly precise manufacturing process that uses a thin, electrically charged wire to cut through conductive materials. Unlike traditional machining methods, EDM does not rely on physical contact to remove material. Instead, it uses controlled electrical sparks to erode the material with extreme accuracy.
This makes EDM wire machining ideal for:
- Intricate shapes and fine details
- Tight internal corners and complex geometries
- Hard materials that are difficult to machine conventionally
- Parts requiring exceptional surface finish and precision
With the addition of the Makino U3i, ADP can now deliver these capabilities directly from our own facility.
Why This Investment Matters for ADP
Until recently, EDM wire machining was a process we outsourced. While this allowed us to meet customer requirements, bringing this capability in-house offers several key advantages.
✅ Greater Control Over Quality
By managing EDM wire machining internally, we now have full control over every stage of the process. This ensures that all components meet our strict quality standards, from initial machining through to final inspection.
✅ Improved Lead Times
Subcontracting can introduce delays due to external scheduling and logistics. With our new EDM machine on-site, we can significantly reduce turnaround times and respond more quickly to urgent customer requirements.
✅ Increased Production Flexibility
Having EDM wire capability in-house means we can adapt production schedules more easily. This allows us to support both prototype work and production runs without relying on external suppliers.
✅ Streamlined Workflow
Bringing EDM into our existing process creates a more efficient workflow. Components can move seamlessly from CNC machining to EDM cutting and then into inspection, all within the same facility.
The Benefits for Our Customers
This investment isn’t just about improving our internal operations—it’s about delivering even more value to our customers.
Enhanced Precision
The Makino U3i EDM wire machine allows us to produce components with extremely tight tolerances and intricate features that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with conventional machining alone.
Faster Turnaround
With no need to outsource EDM work, customers benefit from shorter lead times and more reliable delivery schedules.
One-Stop Engineering Solution
By combining CNC milling, turning, EDM wire cutting, and inspection under one roof, ADP becomes a true single-source supplier. This simplifies project management and reduces the need for multiple vendors.
Greater Design Flexibility
Engineers now have more freedom to design complex parts, knowing that ADP has the capability to manufacture them accurately and efficiently.
The Makino U3i: Precision You Can Rely On
The Makino U3i is known for its precision, reliability, and advanced technology. It is designed to handle complex cutting tasks with exceptional accuracy, making it a perfect fit for the high standards we maintain at ADP.
This machine enhances our ability to work with:
- Hardened steels
- Exotic alloys
- Precision tooling components
- High-spec engineering parts
Combined with our existing 20 CNC machines and advanced inspection equipment, the addition of EDM wire machining strengthens our position as a leading precision engineering company in the North East.
Supporting a Wide Range of Industries
Our new EDM wire capability supports a variety of sectors, including:
- Aerospace – Complex, high-precision components
- Defence – Durable and accurate parts for critical applications
- Medical – Intricate components with tight tolerances
- Automotive and Motorsport – High-performance engineered parts
No matter the industry, our goal remains the same: to deliver precision, quality, and reliability in every component we produce.
Continuing Our Investment Journey
The addition of the Makino U3i is part of ADP’s ongoing commitment to investing in the latest technology. Since moving to our Throckley facility in 2018, we have consistently expanded our capabilities to meet the evolving needs of our customers.
By bringing more processes in-house, we are not only improving efficiency but also strengthening our ability to deliver a complete, high-quality service.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re looking for a precision engineering partner that offers CNC machining, EDM wire cutting, and advanced inspection services, ADP Precision Engineering is ready to help.
Contact us today to discuss your next project or request a quote.
With our new EDM capability, we’re better equipped than ever to deliver the precision and performance your business demands.